FIRST Forensic Laboratory Technician 1

This announcement will be used to fill one vacant Management Analyst 1 / Forensic Laboratory Technician 1 position in the Forensic Intelligence Response Support & Testing (FIRST) Section of the BCA Forensic Science Services in St. Paul, MN.  The FIRST Section expands the BCA’s current capacity for front-end forensic testing such as collection of DNA, serial number restoration, handling firearms, and entering firearms evidence into the National Integrated Ballistics Information Network (NIBIN).

This is a full-time permanent position that will provide technical support and analysis to the forensic scientists and external customers of the BCA Forensic Science Services.  As a Forensic Laboratory Technician, this individual’s duties will include processing of physical evidence utilizing standard laboratory methods and procedures, providing ongoing support and quality control to prepare and maintain chemical reagents and apply them per standard methods and procedures, and ensuring evidence submitted to the BCA Forensic Science Services is properly received and recorded in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).  These activities will be conducted in adherence to the agency policies and procedures in a manner that embodies the mission, vision, and values of the MN BCA.

Individuals in this position may be eligible to participate in crime scene processing training for inclusion in the Crime Scene Response Program.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

1.      1 year of professional laboratory experience

OR

5 years work experience in evidence intake, evidence processing, and/or data analysis in a law enforcement agency

OR

Bachelor’s degree* (with a minimum of 2 classes in the physical sciences and 1 Biology or Chemistry laboratory course, unofficial college transcripts required with resume). May 2025 graduates are encouraged to apply.

2.      Excellent oral and written communication skills

3.      Ability to work with a diverse clientele

*To minimally qualify with a Bachelor's degree, applicants are required to submit unofficial college transcripts with a resume to the application. You may combine files or upload using the cover letter attachment type. Please upload files as either a PDF or docx. 

Preferred Qualifications

1.      A Bachelor’s or advanced degree in a physical or life science such as biology, chemistry, biochemistry, physics, forensic science or equivalent

2.      Coursework in Biochemistry, Genetics, Molecular Biology, and Statistics.

3.      Demonstrated knowledge and use of laboratory quality assurance and evidence handling procedures

4.      Experience in a forensic science laboratory gained through an internship or work experience; or work experience in a law enforcement agency

5.      Experience with standard computer software (e.g. word processing, spreadsheets)

Physical Requirements

Requires occasionally moving and transporting 50-pound items and frequently moving and transporting objects such as heavy tools and heavy file boxes. This job may require positioning self to move to a significant degree across rough terrain or may involve maintaining a stationary position for extended periods.

Additional Requirements

The prospective employee will undergo a background check for this position which will include the following:

1.      A criminal history check

2.      Reference check

3.      Driver License history

4.      Fingerprints

5.      Psychological evaluation

6.      Drug screen

The BCA will not sponsor applicants for work visas. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US.

Application Details

How to Apply 

Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.

Contact

If you have questions about this position, contact Madison Markgraf at madison.markgraf@state.mn.us 

To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Madison Markgraf at madison.markgraf@state.mn.us.

About Public Safety Dept 

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) is a diverse, complex agency dedicated to serving communities across the state. DPS has 10 public facing and four support divisions with about 2,200 dedicated employees operating programs statewide that all have one goal: Building a safer Minnesota.

Working together to improve the state we love. 

What do Minnesota's State employees have in common? 

• A sense of purpose in their work
• Connection with their coworkers and communities
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth

Benefits 

As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.

Your benefits may include: 

• Paid vacation and sick leave 
• 12 paid holidays each year 
• Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans 
  • Fertility care, including IVF
  • Diabetes care
  • Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children 
• 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
• Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
• Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
• Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care 
• Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being

Support to help you reach your career goals:

• Training, classes, and professional development
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support:

• A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
• Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
• Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care

Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.